Figuring out the internet speeds you need seems complicated, but it doesn’t need to be. The FCC defines high-speed internet as internet speeds as fast as 25 Mbps.
These speeds are workable for the casual internet user but will deliver nothing but disappointment for those who enjoy streaming their favorite shows, gaming online, or working from home. Because of the many misconceptions out there about internet speeds, we’ve put together this article to help you find the best internet speeds out there for your family.
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If you’re still unsure of what internet speeds you need by the end of this article or have some reservations, just remember that most internet providers allow you to change what internet plan you’re on at any time even if you’re in a contract. Just note that if you do decide to change your internet plan mid billing cycle, that you may see some proration on your next bill. Let’s dive in and find the internet speeds right for you!
Choosing the right internet speeds is the most important decision you’ll have to make when buying internet service. If you choose the wrong internet speeds, you’ll either overpay for your service or be unhappy because your speeds are too slow. To make choosing your internet speeds easier, we’ve come up with this list of the most popular online activities modern households use their internet service for below.
| Online Activity | Recommended Internet Speeds |
| Casual Web Browsing | 1 Mbps |
| Checking Emails | 10 Mbps |
| Social Media | 25 Mbps |
| Listening to Music | 25 Mbps |
| Streaming Podcasts | 25 Mbps |
| Video Calls | 25 Mbps |
| Working From Home | 25 Mbps |
| HD Streaming | 25 Mbps |
| Online Gaming | 100 Mbps |
| 4K Streaming | 100 Mbps |
| Smart Home Devices | 100 Mbps |
When using this chart, be sure to account for your most intensive internet activities, how many internet enabled devices will be connected simultaneously and any online activities you’d like to get into in the future.
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Choosing your internet plan is more than just what internet speeds you’ll expect to receive from your internet provider. While doing your research, find out what other free perks are included with your new internet plan. Some internet providers offer their subscribers free stuff like:
These added free perks might not make you choose one internet plan or provider over another, but knowing what you’ll get for your money ensures that you’ll make the most of it.
If you think you’ve finally found the internet plan for your family, that’s great! We also recommend while shopping for a new internet service that you research the internet provider themselves. Are you happy with what customers have to say about your new prospective internet provider? Do they address outages quickly? Some of the things you’ll want to look to see if your new prospective internet provider has are:
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No two internet providers are alike so you have to be cautious before subscribing or signing on the dotted line. While shopping for new internet service, there are some things you’ll need to watchout for like:
Some of these things on our list look great, like promotional pricing, bundles, and contract buyouts. However, buyers beware that promotional pricing expires after the number of months they state in their fine print. Meanwhile, promotional bundles and contract buyouts come with fine print too that includes minimum service plans and sometimes signing a contract to get their deal.
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